listening to classical music, reading books like, the mindful way through depression, an unquiet mind by kay redfield jameson. taking short walks. taking a bath with essential oils. just a few things i have found helpful. hope you do too.

it doesn't necessary have to be classic music irishwriter, (i dont mean that in a rude way)....just any music that makes you happy...for me its hardcore, or emocore.......reading is also a good relief, and i love walks or in my case parkour runs

Playing the piano, going for a walk through the woods enjoying nature, listening to the sound of a stream running, and stopping to enjoy a big breath of polluted air....:) Most importantly, Have a sense of humour and laugh!

getting outside, working in the garden, watching the seeds I planted sprout, that works for me.

I wish I still had my cello, playing music is relaxing. I love old rock and roll, so I listen to that a lot.

Listening to music while walking helps me a lot.

There's a very good reason why it's said that music soothes the savage beast. Exercise is good too, though. Doesn't have to be heavy...just something light can go a long way.

Exercise helped me alot. Start by setting small goals that you know u can accomplish and work ur way up slowly. I started running years ago but started by going the distance between 2 telephone poles. When I felt comfortable doing that, I would increase it by another pole. The trick is to do it everyday even if u dont want to. If you dont have time u have to make time.

If you can work your way up to 45 minutes of aerobic exercise, your brain will secret endorphins which are the body's natural pain killers. They are morphine like substances which give you a natural high.

You can do it with anything, bike riding, swimming, on a treadmill or gym.

Try it and let us know how u make out!

I think the exercise suggestion is sound - it seems to kick start the bodies chemistry.

I find connection to nature, whether going to a park or just having a pot plant helps - it seems to literally ground me.

How much do you sleep? I've read that over sleeping can actually contribute to depression.

Yes - any sort of a hobby is good.
There are lots of good sites for looking up hobbies.
Anything that will occupy your mind and your timeis good.
Doesn't have to be especially productive - can be anything that interests you or that you are able to enjoy.

hugs

Doing something for you. Give yourself a facial , or pedicure, manicure, I bought the stuff over a process of three paychecks and started when i had it all . Alot cheaper in the long run to purchase it yourself. Then pamper you. Go on Youtube type meditation and you get calming music. Pamper yourself while listening. Heres a few links

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtqeomC_0ko

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1xd3GrMPGs&feature=fvwrel

I draw and, paint. and if you put your time into it, time passes and, you forget your depressed, or appointments, or that you have to throw dinner in, or you left the cat out. (dogs) who let the dogs out...Ha! Ha!...

:) Wow, great answers everyone ! i love the participation.
I too will have to answer with excercise. When i get out and about , I feel so much better then when i stay inside. :) Even when i clean , and look around at my finished home, I crack a smile :)